Then, at the European Championships in 2012, he missed the first two games because of suspension.

"Age 28 or 29 has been the normal peak," said Scholes. "With Wayne it could have been when he scored 27 league goals in 2011-12 when he was 26.

"Wayne was in the Everton team at 16 in 2003. Since then, he has played at Euro 2004, two World Cups, the Premier League and Champions League every year. There's a chance he's worn out."

But Liverpool midfielder Gerrard responded: "He's been in terrific form.

"I can only judge from my opinion but from what I've seen of his performances in the United team and his form has been really positive.

"He's worked hard this week and he decided to do his own week of extra training. He seems in a much better frame of mind going into this tournament than in previous tournaments when he's had injuries on his mind. I'm excited about where Wayne Rooney is at."